Canine Arthritis: Learn The Signs And Treatment Of Dog Arthritis

As our dogs reach their golden years, health problems such as arthritis start to develop.

Here’s what you need to know about canine arthritis. What are the signs? How you can help ease your dog’s pain?

Arthritis can affect all dog breeds – especially older dogs. Fortunately, spotting arthritis in your dog early can lead to quick relief and treatment.

Unlike many diseases in dogs, there are many different ways and home remedies that you can use to actually help to ease the pain of canine arthritis.

Here are some things you should know about canine arthritis.

Where is my dog feeling pain?

As responsible dog owners, it is our duty to keep an eye on our dogs. They cannot tell us they’re in pain, nor can they pinpoint in which areas they’re feeling pain.

Some dogs experience arthritis on one area while some feel it in multiple parts of their body. Some of the most common problem areas are the back, neck, hips, knees, elbows, shoulders, and paws.

Signs your dog is feeling arthritic pain

There are six clear symptoms that your dog might be experiencing arthritic pain. These signs help tell you that your dog needs treatment right away.

Limping – Dogs limp for a variety of reasons and one of them is canine arthritis.

Cowering down – If your dog cannot keep his body straight, there is a chance that your dog has arthritis. Spinal trouble will cause a dog to hunch over or cower down more than usual since holding their head up straight is painful for them.

Unusual grumpiness – A normally friendly dog may become grumpy when in constant pain. If your dog snaps at you when you pet him in a certain area, chances are he’s feeling arthritic pain in that area.

Inactivity – If the activity levels of your normally active dog start to decrease, this is a sure sign that all is not well. The decrease in activity may be gradual. If your dog is normally calm and inactive, this sign can be harder to spot.

Loss of muscle mass – Arthritic dogs get less exercise and this causes their muscles to deteriorate. According to PetMD, “Arthritic pets often develop muscle atrophy or dying off of the muscle tissue due to inactivity and decreased use of the muscles.” But since weight and muscle loss can be signs of different health issues,you should always take your dog to the vet if you notice weight or muscle loss.

Difficulty with common activities – Like in humans dogs with arthritis find it hard to use the stairs, get off the couch, or get into the car.